Former Celtic defender Jackie McNamara thinks Brendan Rodgers’ side were never in a crisis this summer despite being knocked out of the Champions League in the qualifying rounds by AEK Athens.

The ex-Hoops player believes the convincing Old Firm derby win against Rangers a couple of weeks ago was evidence that the manager is still very much in control of the situation at Celtic Park:

“I don’t think there is any doubt that Brendan is a top managerial operator. In the lead up to the last game it was all about Rangers getting closer and there was a crisis over at Celtic but Brendan’s team did their talking on the park. Celtic showed that they are still way ahead.”

With personnel issues with both Moussa Dembele and Dedryck Boyata, as well as inactivity during the transfer window, it has been a tough summer for Rodgers.

The £20m sale of the French striker, in particular, was a challenge to deal with, and there was also clear frustration over losing out on important signings such as John McGinn to Aston Villa.

Rodgers will hope the focus will now be purely on football matters. Celtic face St Mirren tomorrow evening, and they will want to build some momentum following the international break with a third consecutive league win.